Cancer Survivors Network

Make sure that when your husband goes into remission that you claim evrything that the cancer and its treatment affected. The VA will reduce your rating and may try to say you don't have any residuals problems. DOn't let them get away with it. Keep track of all the meds and treatments. I don't want to bring you down but just trying to help. What I am telling oyu they did to me. I had Non hodgkins too. Have diabettes and heart problems caused by chemo. Good luck!

I too have base of tongue cancer. The VA denied my claim ( agent orange ). However I have read somewhere that RYE vs Principi had his denial overturned. Does anyone have info on how I can get access to that case ?

Ralph, I am also a Vietnam Vet and have base of tongue cancer. I was operated on in Oct. 04. The VA denied my claim also, but I am fighting it. Keep at it and I have only recently heard of the case you speak of.

Boblow305 asked if you can be exposed to Agent Orange without knowing it, the answer is yes. If you were in Vietnam, you were exposed, period. You can be exposed to the chemicals just from drinking the water. To much detail to go into on this post, but you can find info on the internet.

My husband was just recently diagnosed with Squamous Cell Carcinoma. He did two tours in Vietnam where Agent Orange was used quite liberally. I have been doing some research on this cancer and have come up with alot of questions.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma can be caused by carcinogens which can be found in cigarettes. However, Agent Orange had a dioxin in it which was known to be a human carcinogen.
The VA recognizes a cancer called soft tissue sarcoma which is also linked to dioxin exposure and according to what I have read, Squamous cell carcinoma and Soft tissue sarcoma tend to mimic each other and are both hard to diagnose. The suggestion they gave was to have a biopsy sample checked by a pathologist who has extensive experience in diagnosing soft tissue sarcoma.
I am getting ready to fight for my husband on these issues, but it doesn't make any sense to me that both can be caused by carcinogens and Agent Orange had carcinogens in it, yet the VA will only recognize soft tissue sarcoma as an Agent Orange related Cancer when Squamous cell carcinoma is also caused by carcinogens.
I don't know if any of this can be of any help to any of you, but thought I would add the information I have come up with so far. I am not done digging and if I come up with something else, I will share it with you as I would hope you would share it with me also, since we are all in this fight together.
God Bless,
Debbie
(Wife of a Marine)

I am new to this site,why I don't know since I have had two cancers from this poison. I read your post on squamous cell cancer and thought I would tell you my story in a very few words.

I was in Vietnam from 1964 to 65 where I flew support missions for the spray aircraft. We would come back with it all over us, but were told to wash it off "it is not harmful to humans", yeah right!!!

My first cancer was prostate cancer 8 years ago, I caught it early and so far have not had a recurrence. Last year I was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx. I had been on 20% compensation from the prostate cancer, it had been 100% but they pronounced me cured last year (I don't think you are ever cured). They put me back at 100% last year when I was diagnosed to have larynx cancer.

So, yes, if you have not already found out, any kind of cancer to one of their approved cancers will get compensation. I never had any argument from them other than their cutting off the compensation after 2 years because of their ruling that I was cured. Since the larynx cancer is recent they put me back on 100%, but yesterday I got notice that they considered me cured so back to 20%. I am getting an attorney and fighting them on this. The side affects of these cancers are terrible and will last until i die.

I hope you have succeeded with your claim, if not anything I can do to help let me know.

J. McLendon

Hey fighterpilot, I am currently awaiting word from the VA on my claim. I was exposed to AO during my 13 month tour (Phan Rang) 66-67. I am on my 3rd bout with cancer. The first bout consisted of radiation and chemo for cancer of the larynx...which was "cured" for 7 whole months. The second bout required a total laryngectomy and removal of lymph nodes, thyroid and some other associated parts and pieces. It was stage 4 and I was only given a "few months" to live. I'm wondering if the VA would consider the removal of the larynx as "cured" as far as that cancer went? The hole in my neck (which I breathe through) won't go away. I am also dealing with diabetes and now, prostate cancer with the numbers climbing rapidly. All of these "things" are currently listed. My prostate has been trimmed once and wonder if that'll effect their rating any?
AO is an ugly monster that keeps coming back to haunt those that had the misfortune to be in VN or the general area. I wonder from day to day what other "stuff" will come knocking at my door...
My primary means of communication is on my computer and would love to make contact with other VN Vets in this similiar situation. Email me at pipemandoo@myfairpoint.net

Cancer of the salivary gland right cheek was found in 1989. My husband was in DaNang, Quang Tri, Khe Sanh and LZstud in 1968-69. Have any other Vietnam Veterans had adenocarcinoma that anyone knows of. This is not considered an oral cancer as far as I know and VA does not recognize it as caused by AO. However, VA did his surgery and subsequent radiation treatments. He was considered cancer free initially at 5 years and then it was extended to 10 years.

In response to your cancers - I know that if you were cancer free for 5 years you were considered "cured" until a couple of years ago and it was extended to 10 years cancer free so I do not know why VA figured you should be considered cured after only 8 years.

I am writing this for my husband. He asked me to find if there were any other Vietnam Veterans with adenocarcinoma.

Good luck with your problem.

Hi Debbie,
Have you had any luck obtaining Agent Orange benefits for your husband? Hope he is doing well.
My husband was in Vietnam 68-69. In 2006 He was diagnoised with salivary gland cancer; carcinoma to perinodal soft tissue. He applied for benefits and was denied. He appealed the decision and passed away two week later. I am gearing up to continue with the appeal process and feel as you do regarding soft cell tissue sarcoma. Please provide any information that may be helpful.
God Bless you both,
Lu

Hi - my name is Peggy. My husband was also in Vietnam during 68-89 and also diagnosed with salivary gland cancer. My husband was in DaNang, Quang Tri and Khe Sanh. When did your husband develop his cancer? Was he in any of the same areas? I am sorry for your loss. My husband is going to try to appeal the decision now and is looking for evidence to present before appeal time runs out. Thank you for any help you can give us.

People have the habit to observ ant critic everything they see from the use of atrazine like herbicide to the harm of eating to many candies and so on .

The VA recognizes a cancer called soft tissue sarcoma....
excerpt from SARC website;
Soft tissue Sarcoma: Soft tissue sarcomas are the most frequently occurring sarcomas and are a group composed of more than 50 different subtypes. All these subtypes differ in terms of their tissue of origin, clinical behavior, age of occurrence, aggressiveness, the way they spread, genetic alterations, and their sensitivity to certain therapies.

Sarcomas can be anywhere in the body while squamous cell carcinoma specifically occurs inside the upper esophagus and throat and adenocarcinoma occurs in the lower end and stomach in the mucous glands.My husband,also a soldier has adenocarcinoma,his oncologist stated to us the difference in the two;adeno predominately caused by acid reflux and secondly by aged/cured foods and sqam from alcohol and tobacco products cronic use over long period of time.
I admire your fight and determination for your soldier,wives will stand up and do whats needed[guess we learned that from our soldiers]
Va has given a wide spectrum using the sarcoma term-kinda like us saying virus,its up to you to narrow them down and connect the dots to make it specific for your husband case;you need to make a paper trail that ends with them.

I did a search on the internet for agent orange and squamous cell carcinoma and came across 2-3 different cases that people won through the VA which connected Agent Orange and Squamous cell carcinoma. I only did about a 10 minute search, but am planning on spending more time to see if I can locate any more information on it.
If I find anything, I will be more than happy to share it wih you and please do the same for me as it looks as if we are in this war together.

First of all, I was impressed to read about your cancer. I was diagnosed with stage IV nasopharyngeal Carcinoma on June 8, 2006; (Head and neck cancer located in nasopharynx, located between the ears and behind the eyes).

I was also afforded the opportunity to go overseas in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, as a Marine Sergeant. I've made similar claims through the VA. After 5 years active duty, I worked for a DOE subcontractor and for some reason the VA set me up an appointment for an MRI during the time of Hurricane Katrina. Although nothing was found, I was diagnosed the very next spring with the most advanced stage of NPC. Why would they pay $2500-$3000 for the MRI of the brain, unless there was reasoning? Thank you for your service in Vietnam.
"I'll be a Marine till the day I die, on my tombstone 'Semper Fi'!"

My husband was also a marine in vietnam and died from Cancer on the base of his tongue. The VA also denied the claim. I need info on what I can do, like which king of lawyer to cantact, ect.

Tes,

I sent you a private e-mail

Looking for answers.I can't find anything on the internet about RYE vs Principi. Can anyone direct me to it?
Seems the VA claims AO involvement for every area around the tongue but not the tongue itself. What's up with that?

CaptRon,

Rye vs Principi was a case that was won by a Vet who had a private practice represent him. They are located in both Cherry Hill, NJ and Philadelphia, PA. If you google Rye vs Principi, their office will come up, not sure if I would be breaking any rules posting their name, so I won't just to be on the side of caution.

Secondly, you can go the VA site < va.gov > and search the site and look for the section for the ( Board of Appeals ). Once in there, you can do a search for all the appeals for Base of Tongue cancer and read the rulings. You will see many have been denied, but you will also see there are those that are granted. Read who represented the Veteran and what they brought to the Hearing.

Many people show up unprepared as far as proof and expert opinions. I would suggest that anyone applying for benifits have a Rep from a Veteran's organization ( DAV or Vietnam Veterans of America, etc ) help them as there is allot that has to be done with the maze of paperwork.

I hope this is of some help to you, Welcome Home. Semper Fidelis

Here is a link to the web site of the attorneys who won the Rye vs Principi appeal for benefits. http://www.wcblegal.com/successes.php?action=view&id=31

There is a case on this site (http:/www4.va.gov/vetapp08/files3/0824005.txt)that has at least one case won on the tonuge with full benifits. I would suggest using a VFW rep in the case and be sure to ask lots of questions and stay on top of your case with your rep. If you live close to Goldbsy Okla. there is a place called Veterns Corner and they are a bunch of great guys and girls that help you get your paper work ready and you prepared for your fight can't beat them they have really helped my husband with all of this we just started using them in Dec 2009 and are now getting results at least not taking 2 to 4 years to get a respons for the VA.

My husband and I have been fighting for his benifits for this cancer since 1997 I have the site you are looking for (http://www4.va.gov/vetapp08/files3/0834005.txt) the last time I was on this site was 11/27/2009 I found 4 cases at that time were Squamous Cell cancer is being paid full benifits. We are now facing VBA our selfs and hoping this does't take for ever to get to my husband is now on a feeding tube for all food intake we started with the right parioda gland and then right tonsil, and now behind the back of the throat and unoperable so I wish you luck and if you have any information that will help us in getting ready for this next step please let us know. My spelling isn't the greatest wish it was better... Thank you JoBaby

Hi, we just found my dad has squamous cell cancer of the face and hands. He also is a vietnam veteran(marine) he has also been on kidney dialysis for the last 7 to 8 years.We just got the call this morning, now we are in process of contacting the Va. I have told my dad to have a pathologist check it so see if it may be the soft tissue sarcoma (which i see mimic each other) I will fight for my dad on this. His troop was all killed but for 4 men who made it back. He is not healthy enough to fight I can and will. Please if you can give me any information on what i can do or should do it would help thank you

Proud daughter of a Marine
TIna

My father, a two tour Vietnam Vet, has squamous cell carcinoma on his buttocks and in his lungs. He was also diagnosed with non hodgkins lymphoma shortly after the squamous diagnosis. The Va approved our claim that both cancers were directly Agent Orange related and he now receives monthly benefits. My best advice is to find a Va representative that you can speak to in person, as they are a huge help with all the paperwork and will be the most qualified to explain the entire situation to you. If they deny you a first time, fight even harder on the second. Never stop fighting for your father, he needs you more than ever.

Hi Maria,
God bless your father, you and your family. My husband was diagnosed with Carcinoma of the rectum/buttocks. I am mainly fighting this battle Agent Orange for our 21 year old daughter's education fees. Please let me know how you'll went about it and who represented you so that I can continue. It has been a very long road for me since October 19, 2000 when he passed and I sometimes feel like giving up but I know that is not what he would like for me to. I sent you a friend request and hope to hear from you soon.

HI DEBBIE, I'M A MARINE VIETNAM VET WHO IS GOING THROUGH TREATMENT FOR SQUAMOUS CELL CANCER OF THE TONGUE AND AM ALSO IN PROCESS OF TRYING TO OBTAIN SOME BENIFIT FROM VA BUT HAVE HIT A BRICK WALL-THEY ARE WANTING MORE INFO FROM ME AND MY DOCTOR CONCERNING THIS CANCER AND LIKE YOU I HAVENT HAD MUCH LUCK FINDING SUPPORTING INFO.I KNOW YOUR LASR POST WAS IN AUGUST AND I WAS WONDERING IF YOU HAVE HAD ANY LUCK WITH VA? I AM ALSO A NON SMOKER AND ALL MY DOCTORS THOUGHT THAT WAS WEIRD THAT I DIDN'T. HOPE YOU AND YOURS ARE DOING WELL. THANKS, TOM

There are many Marines with squamous cell cancers. I too was diagnosed and all I can suggest is to keep fighting for it. There are too many Marines with Squamous Cell Cancers. We should get together and fight for this with the VA. Although the VA saved me from stage IV NPC, I still believe it to be ethical to help you and the many other "Devil Dogs" with similar cancers. A man who raised me, who my mother divorced, was a Marine Vietnam Veteran with agent orange and a purple heart; compliments of a claymore mine. Lets keep in contact on here and develop MPCOA (most probably course of action). BAMCIS, SMEAC,5 paragraph order...remember???

I, like almost everyone else here, started searching the net for info on the linkage of AO with oral carcinoma. My father is a marine, Vietnam vet and has been fighting mouth sores ever since his return from Vietnam (~'69). The cells in his mouth (cheeks & tongue) have finally gone from being open, painful sores to squamous cell carcinoma and verucous carcinoma. He has been seen by a doc at Ohio State U. hospital that had only seen this in his career a couple of times - all in men that were in Vietnam. We have just returned from the MD Anderson cancer hosp. in Houston for a second opinion on the course of action he should take. He is looking at an extensive surgery, with reconstruction of the tongue, the pulling of every tooth in his head so that he can have radiation to his mouth, and a 6-9 month recovery period.
He has already been given the run around in Columbus by the VA and has since asked me if I can find any info and help with trying again.
To be honest, I could care less what the VA thinks or does. My father has health insurance and I am sure that is the best route for him to go. If I have anything to say about it, he will stay with his team at OSU or go with the fantastic docs. in Houston at MD Anderson.
What I would like to see happen is a study compiling info from the many Marine, Vietnam vets with sqamous cell carcinoma. There has got to be at least one grad student somewhere looking for a research project. I plan on talking to my father's doc. later this month and asking if he knows of any grad students that could be interested in this issue or at least willing to put a study together.
If others could do the same (try to find someone to do a study), and that study be published in a big name journal - the VA may have to recognize squamous cell not only for those that really need the compensation but for all those marines that served proudly and now fight cancer due to AO.

I can relate to you as I live in ohio as well. We just got back from seeing the Specialist at the Arthur James Cancer Treatment Center at Ohio State, which we were told was the best in the state. That doctor found out more in 30 seconds about my fathers issues than the darn VA has in the past 18 months. My father has been going to the VA for 18 months about the lumps in his neck and lymph nodes. The VA doc there has been stating in his medical record that its just a cough, or the flu. I am sorry but if your darn lymph nodes swell up for 6 months and other lumps start to form in the neck, its a little bigger problem that just the flu or having a cold. One VA doctor even had the audacity to write in my fathers medical record," Patient is a nice fellow, but he is a little over anxious,!" OVER ANXIOUS? REALLY? Why HELL YES HE IS! HE IS CONCERNED THAT THERE IS SOMETHING WRONG AND THERE IS! Thanks to the VA it has been growing and spreading for the past 18 months! I wouldnt take a sick dog to the VA. They really do not care about the vets.
SO now my father has Squamous Cell carcinoma of the lymph nodes, and tongue, stage 4, and goes in for surgery on May 5th with radiation to follow 4 to 6 week afterwards.

Thanks VA!!! you really know what your doing......

Jason,
I am so sorry to read of your father's diagnosis. And extremely angry at VA for causing delay in treatment through their insensitivity! I am now battling VA for my husband, as he passed away in December, lung cancer.

I have learned to channel my anger into positive avenues. I have become an out spoken advocate for Veterans!

What war or conflict was your father in? Do some research. Keep and copy all his medical documents. Gather any and all military documents. He may have a claim to VA.

But most importantly, take care of yourself. He will need you through his battle. Find time to just relax with him, enjoy life. This beast called cancer can be overwhelming and all consuming if you let it.

Lucy

my husband died june 18th this year. no benefits yet.

I have been doing a lot of looking on the internet and found out through a medical file open to the public that most of the squamous cell 90% cancers from smoking are on the left side of the throat and that the glands are caused from carinogens not smoking so maybe now my husband has a fighting chance to win this battle of 13 years feels like forever... My husband did two tours in Vietnam and was exposed to agent orange also he had boils and all when he first came home but some how all of those medical records can't be found. They were also preparing to remove his arm when a boil finally popped and those medical records can't be found so I hope everyone has better luck than we have had with this battle for benifits well deserved..

Hi JoBaby,
In reading your comments about smoking and and the long battle, 2 tours in Vietnam. Ok so the Gov. doesn't want to acknowledge Squamous Cell Cancer as Agent orange related. It occurred to me that the soldiers of Vietnam were issued C-rations and in those C-rations they were issued cigarettes.

My husband died of carcinoma of the rectom and was also a Vietnam Vet. They do not recognized this. So while reading the many posts, and all the articles and such that I have read, I wondered just how many people thought about the soldiers that did smoke were issued cigarettes by the government. Doesn't that somehow make the government somewhat responsible? Just maybe many of us are looking at it from just an Agent Orange cause when perhaps we all, including myself should place the "issuer" of cigarettes as part of the C-rations to be held responsible for so many Veterans returning with smoking habits that continued throughout their lives and have caused cancer.

I am going to go at this more aggressive now from both angles because these men served to protect us. I researched C-ration contents, ask your hubby if he received those same C-rations with cigarettes.

Good luck on your battle and may God be the guide for alot of wrong being turned to right!

could you please email me the list of cancers you have found to have affected us vet exposed to AO,, I have just been dianosed with cancer in my tonsil and starting treatment monday with surgery,,,,,,

http://www4.va.gov/vetapp09/files5/0940472.txt
http://www4.va.gov/vetapp09/files5/0940472.txt

this is a recent case where it was decided as follows

In accordance with the medical
definition:
The respiratory system includes the
nostrils, nasopharynx, oral pharynx,
glottis, trachea, bronchi and
bronchioles.

Oropharynx (as part of the respiratory
system) includes base of the tongue, the
soft palate, tonsil and the side and back
wall of the throat.

Having determined that the tonsil and base of the tongue are
part of the respiratory system, service connection for this
disorder is presumed under 38 C.F.R. § 3.309(e).
Accordingly, his claim for presumptive service connection for
throat cancer and squamous cell carcinoma of the left tongue
base and tonsil is granted.

please repost this link anywhere u can and lets all copy this case and turn it over to our case worker.

I was a Marine in Vietnam in 1967-68, exposed to Agent Orange, and 6 years ago diagnosed with Soft Tissue Sarcoma. The tumor was attached to the ascending colon and therefore the ascending colon, appendix and my gall bladder as well as the tumor were removed. I was not aware of the connection with Agent Orange, so didn't apply for compensation right away. After couple of years a VA social worker told my wife that if I applied for it I would get an automatic 100% disability compensation. I am here to tell you it isn't true! I got 20% for residual scarring and loss of the colon. Then, just two months ago I was again diagnosed with a soft tissue sarcoma in the same area only deeper. The VA did that surgery and did it poorly. I ended up with a "civilian surgeon" in an outside hospital and I am now well on my way to recovery. This didn't keep the Seattle VA hospital from claiming fees in excess of $105,000 to my insurance company. I have once again requested compensation commiserate with the disability I have and, so far, I just get the run around and stall tactics. My wife is working on my claim as I am really not well enough. I do know and have explained to her that they keep the treatment and compensation branches of the VA saparate for a reason other than service to the vet. They have a whole staff of insensitive jerks whose only purpose in live is to deny any claim put before them. I would like to sit across from table from them when they decide how to, once again, deny my claim; or, better yet, wish upon them, in their lifetime to live what I and others have lived.

Having vented my spleen, I must say my purpose is two-fold. I must encourage you to never give up. The system is designed to wear you down. It is too bad we have no voice speaking for us. Also, so you understand what you are dealing with, the VA is governed by the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). Google VA and CFR and it should put you on the right track. It will give you an insite as to how the jerks think. Use the wrong buzzword or terminology and they will use it against you - not request clarification.

Lastly, for the last six years plus I have been unsuccessfully looking for someone with my form of cancer who has survived.

Stay in there and don't let the turkeys put you down.

I just joined this site looking for info on Agent Orange-related cancers because I was told there had been some new action by Congress. I was a Marine Corp grunt in 67-68 (crashed the Tet party in Hue - were you there?)and was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma in my right tonsil six years ago. It metasticized down the lymph nodes on the right side of my neck. Many surgeries later with chemo- and radiation therapy I have been told I can call myself a "survivor" just this year. Like many of us, I never say I've 'beaten' cancer - bad mojo or something. I thank God that I am still here and am grateful for every day.

My question is: why are so many respiratory cancers considered AO-caused but not swallowing cancers? Like many others of you, I am not considered a good candidate for cancer. I smoked a little but not much, am not over-weight, and not a heavy drinker (I ride a Harley but I dont think that counts).I was fortunate in having private health insurance and didn't have to go to the VA for treatment. I got a great surgeon but he doesn't agree that AO is a cause. Some of his colleagues, however, feel that it "may" be. On other issues, specifically hearing loss, the VA has been pretty good to me.

We need to keep posting to this site, and any others you may know of, to track those who were NOT good candidates but got cancer, anyway, through AO exposure.

Regardless, good luck and God bless you all in your fight. The Marine Corps taught me to keep putting one foot in front of the other and that's what I did - with the help of a terrific wife who just wouldn't let me give up. I'll check back once in a while to see how you are all doing. I hope to hear more from you.

Stay strong!

my mouth cancer also went to my neck. have had radiation 39 treatments and chemo. radiation burned my mouth up. have to keep a water bottle everywhere i go.

I just joined this site looking for info on Agent Orange-related cancers because I was told there had been some new action by Congress. I was a Marine Corp grunt in 67-68 (crashed the Tet party in Hue - were you there?)and was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma in my right tonsil six years ago. It metasticized down the lymph nodes on the right side of my neck. Many surgeries later with chemo- and radiation therapy I have been told I can call myself a "survivor" just this year. Like many of us, I never say I've 'beaten' cancer - bad mojo or something. I thank God that I am still here and am grateful for every day.

My question is: why are so many respiratory cancers considered AO-caused but not swallowing cancers? Like many others of you, I am not considered a good candidate for cancer. I smoked a little but not much, am not over-weight, and not a heavy drinker (I ride a Harley but I dont think that counts).I was fortunate in having private health insurance and didn't have to go to the VA for treatment. I got a great surgeon but he doesn't agree that AO is a cause. Some of his colleagues, however, feel that it "may" be. On other issues, specifically hearing loss, the VA has been pretty good to me.

We need to keep posting to this site, and any others you may know of, to track those who were NOT good candidates but got cancer, anyway, through AO exposure.

Regardless, good luck and God bless you all in your fight. The Marine Corps taught me to keep putting one foot in front of the other and that's what I did - with the help of a terrific wife who just wouldn't let me give up. I'll check back once in a while to see how you are all doing. I hope to hear more from you.

Stay strong!

I to had the some cancer as you ,but on the left side in 1998. I was in VN 1969 - 1970. My case has been denied twice but still working on it. Maybe someday the VA will own up to it. God bless

Where do I start! In Feb. 2008 my husband was diagnosed with oral cancer in his neck & jaw. He went thru chemo & radiation. The 1st cancer drugs were not beneficial so the Dr. changed the course and used different drugs. They also found lung ca. He died in July 2008. I have applied to the VA and was at 1st given benefits and then denied them. I appealed and finally had a hearing in Nov. 2009. I researched extensively and came to this site before the appeal hearing. I'm also a nurse and obtained his medical records and went thru them extensively prior to the hearing. I researched the lawsuit that is mentioned here and called the attorney's that filed the lawsuit. They have given themselves an "atta boy" on their web site but the office personnel were not interested in helping and the office manager never called me back. The receptionist said that I needed to know the lawyer that filed the suit. I explained that it didn't tell on their web site and she said she couldn't help me. But I referenced that lawsuit during my appeals hearing. The doctor that reviewed his case said that the lung cancer was a metastases from his oral cancer. So therefore did not come under the VA guidelines for granting benefits since oral cancer is not one of the ones that they say comes from AO. Which everyone knows how utterly ridiculous that is, if you concede that it can cause lung cancer then obviously since it has to go thru your mouth as an airborne substance then it can affect your oral cavity and neck also. The Dr's that reviewed his case did not realize that they didn't find lung cancer on xray but only after they did an MRI of his neck and lungs. So he could have had lung cancer 1st. I pointed this out to the board. After the hearing the board chairman told me it would be 30 to 45 days and it has now been 5 months. I have called the 800 # several times and they said was still being evaluated. Finally last week I found out that the regional office had not sent the transcript and that's what they were waiting on. I called the regional office and the secretary said that they had alot of cases and it took them awhile and I said "5 months". She was shocked and said she would have it expedited right away. My advice is to have a friend who is a medical person go thru your records before you go to appeal and point out different things that may be important. The regional appeal will not need a lawyer( which will save you some money) but if you have to appeal it to Washington then you will need a lawyer.
I think it's important for all the military and military related people to stick together and continue to push AO related medical problems and bring it before the public and the military. As I've read about AO I find my husband had several medical problems that were odd for someone of his age. Heart problems since his 40's, diabetes and other medical problems that can be attributed to AO. Thanks for listening and feel free to e-mail me with comments or questions.
By the way my husband was a helicopter pilot in the Army and flew extensively in the areas exposed.

they dont care about hearing loss,, I flew and was a mechanic and worked around helicopters for over 20 years, and I have documentation for being deaf in my right ear but they say they dont cover hearing loss,, as far as I am concerned we gave our all,, and we got nothing!!!!! I am tired of this

Served 2 terms in Vietnam 1966-1968 with 1st Marine Div I Corp. I am a purple heart Vet. In 1989 I got Squamous Cell Carcinoma in the tonsils and lymph nodes. Eight weeks of radiation killed saliva glands and taste buds. In remission until 2008 when I noticed a sore on my tongue. Cancer came back with a vengance. Lost part of my tongue and upper pallet requiring prosthesis to close upper pallet. Eight bouts of aspiration pneumonia within the last year. Four month ago I had to have a feeding tube inserted in my stomach. Working with dental oncologist for two years and just got upper teeth this week. Lowers to come. VA has denied my claims for agent orange and squamous cell carcinoma twice. I am still appealing claims and would appreciate any help. Semper fi ..... Jimmy

Jimmy,

I sent you a private message tonight.

My Best to You and Everyone Here

Hi Everyone: My brother got extremely sick about 5 years ago with dermatomyocytis. Dermatomyocytis is when your own immune system attacks your muscles and renders them useless. In people greater than 40 y of age this disease can be triggered by a cancer (In approximately 70%). We could not find it then because he was so sick. My brother with in a week became paralysed, unable to breathe on his own, ventilated for 4 months. During that time he experienced a heart attack, 2 head bleeds, renal failure, chronic lung disease, and we were asked to end his life. He got a trach, a tube to feed him etc... We did not end his life and I took off from work to remain at his bedside and 15 months later he came out of rehabilitation to home. He had to learn to walk and talk again. Once discharged they found squamous cell carcinoma of his throat. My brother never smoked. By the time they found the cancer it had already spread to his lymph nodes, lung. He has had resection and radiation to his neck, wedge resection of his lung, and recently they found another source in his lung. He decided that he wanted to have radiation instead since he could still play golf.
I believe that his squamous cell carcinoma was due to Agent Orange during the Vietnam War. He was a SeaBee. He would clear land and build on it. My borther is alive and drives but he has a family that he/I would like to see taken care of, a wife and 2 sons. He is not working. We do not know how long he has... what ever time it is, it is a gift. I am wondering if any of the people on this site won an appeal to get their deserved disability paid for? It is very strange that all the people on this site were in Vietnam and most likely exposed to agent orange. I am very much interested in where people are in their appeals.
Thanks-you so much for listening to me....
a caring sister.

Dear ESPO1217,
My husband was diagnosed w/Stage 3A Squamous Lung Cancer in September, 2009. He had three tumors in his left lung and was not a candidate for surgery. He received 36 radiation treatments and 5 chemotherapies. The tumors did shrink consierably. However, the dr. could not tell from the CT scan if there was any more tumors due to the scarring from the radiation. She put him on Tarceva, and as of his last CT scan, there was no new activity, and one of the spots they were watching has disappeared. He applied to the VA for benefits. He finally received a letter telling him to report for an examination in August, 2010. Just last week, he received a letter stating that he was rated as 140% disabled (100% for lung cancer, 20% for diabetes, and 20% for partial loss of feeling in the feet). He received a check for benefits dated back to September, 2009 and will receive approx. $2800/month thereafter. He is also eliglble for medical treatment through the VA if he needs it, but so far our hospitalization, which I carry for the family, has covered all of his treatments. He also has to be re-evaluated by the VA every year to find out of there is any improvement in his condition. It is a long and drawn out process and is very frustrating. There definitely is a relationship between Agent Orange and the cancers that the Vietnam vets are getting. Please tell your brother to keep calling the VA and following up on his claim. You are in my prayers.

Dear puppy2010,
Your post has shed a ray of hope to us. My husband, Dennis, was diagnosed with extensive sclc, with mets to his liver, and now in his bones, on April 28, 2010. He is a Viet Nam Veteran and spent several weeks at times " in country ", as his detachment's, in the Phillipines, primary mission was to support the troops in country. He began his claim to VA about a month after his diagnosis, and we are still waiting... One of the huge obstacles was to find documentation that he was in fact "in country". as the Air Force would send them on 28 day TDY's, as to not have to give the tax free pay and shorten their tours. Have to just say this, documentation in those days by the Air Force sucked!! Fortunately, he was able to find 2 forms of documentation. The VA has not said if they are acceptable as of this posting. In fact, all they have done is send letters requesting the same medical records over and over, and letters telling us that they are still reviewing his claim! He has been working with a VA counselor, and she is very kind and is trying to "push" the folks in Houston. The Doctors have given him 11-12 months. Of course, he is fighting this monster and we pray that the statistics are wrong! Why is VA dragging this out? What are they waiting for? I know that there are so many Veterans in need of the benefits that they have so honorably earned, but I just can't help the frustration. We are blessed that he did retire from the Air Force, so his treatments have all been covered by Tricare. And his doctors are wonderful.
If you know of anything we can do to help ourselves, please let us know. Any info will be greatly appreciated. Prayers and blessings for you and your husband.

Lucy

I read your post and can sympathize with you and your husband. It took 11 months before my husband received a letter telling him to come in for an examination by the VA. He had to make that appointment at the specified time --no excuses. He went for the examination by a VA dr. They put him through the same tests that his oncologists had already done. The VA also asked for his medical recordsfrom his oncoligists two or three times. He was successful in getting the service connection, but it took over a year. My prayers are with you and your husband.

Jan

Thank you for your response, Jan. I pray that your husband is doing well. My husband is experiencing fatigue from the brain radiation treatments he received the past two weeks. Now we know that it is not "just us" with the VA! We will keep calling them, sending them copies of copies, and never stop. Doesn't VA get it? These are Warriors and their Warrior Wives that they are dealing with!! Take care. Will post any up-dates on the issue.

God bless you and your husband,

Lucy

Dear ESPO1217,
My husband was diagnosed w/Stage 3A Squamous Lung Cancer in September, 2009. He had three tumors in his left lung and was not a candidate for surgery. He received 36 radiation treatments and 5 chemotherapies. The tumors did shrink considerably. However, the dr. could not tell from the CT scan if there was any more tumors due to the scarring from the radiation. She put him on Tarceva, and as of his last CT scan, there was no new activity, and one of the spots they were watching has disappeared. He applied to the VA for benefits. He finally received a letter telling him to report for an examination in August, 2010. Just last week, he received a letter stating that he was rated as 140% disabled (100% for lung cancer, 20% for diabetes, and 20% for partial loss of feeling in the feet). He received a check for benefits dated back to September, 2009 and will receive approx. $2800/month thereafter. He is also eliglble for medical treatment through the VA if he needs it, but so far our hospitalization, which I carry for the family, has covered all of his treatments. He also has to be re-evaluated by the VA every year to find out of there is any improvement in his condition. It is a long and drawn out process and is very frustrating. There definitely is a relationship between Agent Orange and the cancers that the Vietnam vets are getting. Please tell your brother to keep calling the VA and following up on his claim. You are in my prayers.

Dear ESPO1217,
My husband was diagnosed w/Stage 3A Squamous Lung Cancer in September, 2009. He had three tumors in his left lung and was not a candidate for surgery. He received 36 radiation treatments and 5 chemotherapies. The tumors did shrink considerably. However, the dr. could not tell from the CT scan if there was any more tumors due to the scarring from the radiation. She put him on Tarceva, and as of his last CT scan, there was no new activity, and one of the spots they were watching has disappeared. He applied to the VA for benefits. He finally received a letter telling him to report for an examination in August, 2010. Just last week, he received a letter stating that he was rated as 140% disabled (100% for lung cancer, 20% for diabetes, and 20% for partial loss of feeling in the feet). He received a check for benefits dated back to September, 2009 and will receive approx. $2800/month thereafter. He is also eliglble for medical treatment through the VA if he needs it, but so far our hospitalization, which I carry for the family, has covered all of his treatments. He also has to be re-evaluated by the VA every year to find out of there is any improvement in his condition. It is a long and drawn out process and is very frustrating. There definitely is a relationship between Agent Orange and the cancers that the Vietnam vets are getting. Please tell your brother to keep calling the VA and following up on his claim. You are in my prayers.

http://www4.va.gov/vetapp09/files5/0940472.txt
http://www4.va.gov/vetapp09/files5/0940472.txt

this is a recent case where it was decided as follows

In accordance with the medical
definition:
The respiratory system includes the
nostrils, nasopharynx, oral pharynx,
glottis, trachea, bronchi and
bronchioles.

Oropharynx (as part of the respiratory
system) includes base of the tongue, the
soft palate, tonsil and the side and back
wall of the throat.

Having determined that the tonsil and base of the tongue are
part of the respiratory system, service connection for this
disorder is presumed under 38 C.F.R. § 3.309(e).
Accordingly, his claim for presumptive service connection for
throat cancer and squamous cell carcinoma of the left tongue
base and tonsil is granted.

please repost this link anywhere u can and lets all copy this case and turn it over to our case worker.

http://www4.va.gov/vetapp09/files5/0940472.txt
http://www4.va.gov/vetapp09/files5/0940472.txt

this is a recent case where it was decided as follows

In accordance with the medical
definition:
The respiratory system includes the
nostrils, nasopharynx, oral pharynx,
glottis, trachea, bronchi and
bronchioles.

Oropharynx (as part of the respiratory
system) includes base of the tongue, the
soft palate, tonsil and the side and back
wall of the throat.

Having determined that the tonsil and base of the tongue are
part of the respiratory system, service connection for this
disorder is presumed under 38 C.F.R. § 3.309(e).
Accordingly, his claim for presumptive service connection for
throat cancer and squamous cell carcinoma of the left tongue
base and tonsil is granted.

please repost this link anywhere u can and lets all copy this case and turn it over to our case worker.

Welcome aboard Jacqlyn. Hope the best for your husband. There is a possibility it may be Vietnam or Agent Orange related. Where specific is the SCC?

I'm sorry to hear about your husbands diag. I'm 4 years out from head and neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cancer of the base of the tongue. I flew in Vietnam, my aircraft (UH-1D) was used to defoliate, I drank the water ate the food and breathed the air.
My oncologist at the VA Medical Center in Portland said my Cancer was from AO. He thought it absurb that if it was 10cm one way or the other it would have been SC. My 14 weeks of radiation and Chemo Therapy were done jointly by the VA and the Oregon Health and Sciences University. The OHSU doctor and Professor said he is seeing an alarming increase in head and neck cancers from Vietnam Veterans. I tell every Vietnam Veteran I know to keep up on your medical exams, and if something doesn't feel right get to a doctor.
I am Mad too, there is an epidemic of cancer of vietnam veterans, three of my good friends are battling right now, prostate, larynx, and lung cancers. Another good friend is in his second round and has had recontruction in the area.
I am greatful for the medical tech, but there needs to be more done. I am considering fighting the VA for Service Connection, my prayers are with you all,
Rick Sciapiti Roseburg Oregon 114th Assault Helicopter Co, VN 68-69 US Army.

http://www4.va.gov/vetapp09/files5/0940472.txt

this is a recent case where it was decided as follows

In accordance with the medical
definition:
The respiratory system includes the
nostrils, nasopharynx, oral pharynx,
glottis, trachea, bronchi and
bronchioles.

Oropharynx (as part of the respiratory
system) includes base of the tongue, the
soft palate, tonsil and the side and back
wall of the throat.

Having determined that the tonsil and base of the tongue are
part of the respiratory system, service connection for this
disorder is presumed under 38 C.F.R. § 3.309(e).
Accordingly, his claim for presumptive service connection for
throat cancer and squamous cell carcinoma of the left tongue
base and tonsil is granted.

please repost this link anywhere u can and lets all copy this case and turn it over to our case worker.

http://www4.va.gov/vetapp09/files5/0940472.txt
http://www4.va.gov/vetapp09/files5/0940472.txt

this is a recent case where it was decided as follows

In accordance with the medical
definition:
The respiratory system includes the
nostrils, nasopharynx, oral pharynx,
glottis, trachea, bronchi and
bronchioles.

Oropharynx (as part of the respiratory
system) includes base of the tongue, the
soft palate, tonsil and the side and back
wall of the throat.

Having determined that the tonsil and base of the tongue are
part of the respiratory system, service connection for this
disorder is presumed under 38 C.F.R. § 3.309(e).
Accordingly, his claim for presumptive service connection for
throat cancer and squamous cell carcinoma of the left tongue
base and tonsil is granted.

please repost this link anywhere u can and lets all copy this case and turn it over to our case worker.

Scoat,

1st Welcome Home. 2nd, Please reply to me with a private e-mail through this site. You can go up to the left corner of the page in the block that is labeled CSN. In that block, click on CSN Email. Type in MarineE5 as the person you will be sending the message to.

I want to reply, but it will be a long reply, so no need to take up allot of space here.

My Best to You and Everyone Here

Dear Scoat,

First, I am sorry to hear that the cancer has returned. I pray that they are able to treat and either defeat the beast or at the very least, put it at bay for many years to come!

Your question about submitting a claim? Here is my answer, yes, do it for your sacrifice and honor to this nation! Yes, do it for your wife and your children! And finally, yes, do it for all the other Vietnam Veterans that are also affected or may have already lost their battle with the beast!

It is not an easy journey, I can testify to that. Apr. 2010, my beloved husband, AF retired and Vietnam Veteran, was diagnosed with extensive small cell lung cancer. He was given 11-12 months, with treatment. In May 2010, he filed a claim with VA, lung cancer, agent orange, Vietnam. He passed away in Dec. 2010, eight months after diagnosis. He fought like a warrior, but it was his time. He asked me to promise to continue the battle with VA, I promised, and I continue! He died never having received justice! I am moving heaven and earth in my quest for justice and honor for him. Contacted Congressman, searching everywhere and anywhere for evidence, information, buddies, witnesses. I've requested an entire copy of his personnel records, TDY and Travel pay records. I am working with my local VSR with all the filing of the claims. Have submitted 4 pieces of evidence, have been given the run around... But I will not stop! Only when and if God says, that's enough, you have done everything you could have possibly done, will I give it a rest, maybe...

I have also registered onto several Vietnam Veteran's locator sites. Met many awesome Veterans that have begun to spread the word around their communities! Someone out there will be the "key that unlocks the door".

Should you decide to submit a claim or even want to know about the process, do not hesitate to post comment or PM me. In any case, my prayers are with you and your family. Take care, and welcome home!

Lucy

The effects can carry on for decades to come with children, etc....and I believe as a military brat was exposed to it on our own US bases. TCDD dixoin was noted in the ATSDR report on NAS Whidbey, pesticide resinate area. I lived there during the Vietnam war. My family has all had very strange health symptoms, especially my mother who became totally disabled with lyme disease. From my understanding, TCDD has been used in the US and Canada as well, not just Vietnam. Used to clear airfields, clear brush for railways, and testing in forested areas...i.e., Lyme Ct. Agent Orange was a huge mistake. Not only does TCDD cause cancer but diabilitating arthritus as well. I was diagnosed with juvinille RA while living there. Huge lumps on the knuckles and deformed fingers? It's calcified infection...bartonella...another bacteria as well as babesia used in Agent Orange, I believe.